Laughed and cried whilst reading Marley & Me by John Grogan. How beautifully John captured the tiny details of living with a rambunctious, playful yet lovable dog. Living with Marley came with many challenges but kudos to John and Jenny for loving Marley as he is. Just as he loved them for who they are.
If they wanted, John and Jenny had many reasons to rehome Marley. Chewing up anything and everything within sight, being expelled from obedience school, scratching the walls when there's thunder...the list goes on. But the Grogans stuck with him. Realised that he gave them so much more. Acknowledged the costs of the repairs but cheerfully accepted them as little compared to the companionship he gave them. I'm not sure many would have done the same.
It brought back many memories of dear Laddie and Fraulern, who were so much part of our family for almost a decade. I guess that was what brought the tears too as I felt with John and the Grogans when they had to bid farewell to Marley (this is not a spoiler for the book). Memories of them, joyous as they were, also reminds me that they are now no longer with us. They seemed to sense when I had exams and for that week, did not jump and bark when it was time for their afternoon walk. They wouldn't have let me off so easily all other times. Accusing barks at other times if I dared to be more than 2 hours late for their walk.
The love they so readily and completely gave. I am convinced that they could 'read' people. Laddie, for all his faithfulness and loyalty, was never as generous with his affection to those outside our family. Fraulern, on the other hand, would be friends with anyone. Yet there were occasions when she did not take to certain people although they tried lavishing her with food or attention. And her judgement was always proven right a few months later as the said person(s) betrayed our trust. Laddie, always camera shy; Fraulern, sensing a camera, would happily pose. Different personalities yet they loved each other so. Laddie would walk several paces in front, but turn back to make sure Fraulern is still nearby. Although he was scared of thunder, Laddie would go out searching for Fraulern if we hadn't brought her back after the walk. Fraulern, proud of her big brother, would seek his protection when she sees bigger dogs (not realising that Laddie has more sense than to square up to them!).
John Grogan showed that living with a dog is a two-way thing. I see many occasions when it was a one-way relationship; the dog always giving his/her all yet their master only playing with them when convenient (if at all). The Grogans really embraced the dog into their family life and I hope I will be able to do the same next time. John reflected how dogs love so well - limitless, forgiving, complete and without question. In one reflection, John surprised himself when he realised how Marley could be considered a mentor in how he lived life. I totally agree. Call me mad but I believe we can learn so much from dogs - not just in how they live their life but how they love people. I wish I can readily do the same.
Laddie and Fraulern, I miss you. It has been so many years yet I still smile when I think of your antics and there's still pain when I think that I can no longer give and share your affection and love. I'm sure you are happily wagging your tails in doggie heaven, where treats are plentiful (without the green veg ones you dislike and cleverly separate, Fraulern), vast fields to run in, rats to catch (Fraulern diligently made it her responsibility that our house be rat-free after seeing Laddie do it), golf balls to fetch (which Laddie taught himself whilst Daddy practised behind our house) and plenty of people to lavish you with attention.
